Nashville Predators’ Shea Weber fined $2,500 for head slam

Nashville Predators captain Shea Weber was fined $2,500 by the NHL on Thursday for slamming Detroit Red Wings forward Henrik Zetterberg’s head into the glass at the end of their playoff series opener Wednesday.

The fine for Weber, who was given a minor roughing penalty on the play, was the maximum penalty allowed under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Zetterberg, who says his helmet was cracked by the shove, is expected to play in Game 2 of the Western Conference quarterfinals Friday. Nashville won the first game, 3-2.

NHL chief disciplinarian Brendan Shanahan explained the decision to fine Weber:

“This was a reckless and reactionary play on which Weber threw a glancing punch and then shoved Zetterberg’s head into the glass. As is customary whenever supplemental discipline is being considered, we contacted Detroit following the game and were informed that Zetterberg did not suffer an apparent injury and should be in the lineup for Game 2.”

Weber could be suspended if he is involved in any further incidents this postseason. He claimed the head shove was more of a reaction than a purposeful act.

“It’s a quick game and things happen and it’s an emotional game,” Weber told the Associated Press. “I’m just thankful he’s not hurt, and now we can move forward.”

Zetterberg passed a baseline test for a possible concussion and practiced with the Red Wings on Thursday.

Unfortunately, face-plants into the glass are not a new thing. Here’s one by Slava Kozlov on Adam Foote during the height of the Red Wings-Colorado Avalanche rivalry:

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Nashville’s Shea Weber fined $2,500 for head slam